LS Speaker Om Birla lauds Uzbekistan scholars for interest in Indian languages

New Delhi: Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla has lauded the scholars of Uzbekistan for their deep interest in Indian languages, particularly Hindi and Sanskrit. He noted that these scholars have not only mastered these languages but have also showcased their proficiency through literary works.

While interacting with Indologists, teachers, and students at the esteemed Lal Bahadur Shastri School in Tashkent, Birla emphasized that their dedication to teaching and research has significantly contributed to strengthening the historic ties between India and Uzbekistan. He highlighted that over 600 students are currently learning Hindi at the school, reflecting a profound appreciation for Indian culture and languages.

Birla also pointed out that many Indologists have been honored with prestigious national and international awards for their contributions, including recognition for diplomatic efforts. He mentioned the creation of an Uzbek-Hindi dictionary by local teachers, which was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Discussing India’s global role, Birla remarked that the country is poised to play a key role in shaping the 21st century and emphasized the vast scope for collective progress and collaboration with friendly nations like Uzbekistan. He underscored that mutual understanding can be deepened through cooperation in areas such as the environment, culture, language, and education. Recalling Prime Minister Modi’s earlier visit to Uzbekistan, he noted the popularity of Indian cinema and music in the country and referenced Uzbek Radio's 50 years of Hindi broadcasting, celebrated in 2012.

While acknowledging the different historical journeys of India and Uzbekistan, Shri Birla emphasized their shared developmental goals and strong bilateral ties. He recalled that India was among the first nations to recognize Uzbekistan’s independence and expressed hope that both countries would continue to play pivotal roles in promoting global peace, values, stability, and development.

Birla expressed satisfaction over the growing cooperation between India and Uzbekistan across various sectors, including politics, trade, investment, defense, security, counter-terrorism, science and technology, nuclear energy, space, and information technology. He reaffirmed the strong cultural and educational bonds shared by the two nations.

As part of his visit to Uzbekistan, Birla also held bilateral discussions with H.E. Mr. Nurdinjon Ismoilov, Speaker of the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis, during the 150th Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) Assembly. Highlighting India’s transparent and robust electoral system, Birla said that successfully conducting such a vast electoral process reflects the strength and efficiency of Indian democracy.

He added that India’s democratic progress has been driven by the active participation of its citizens. Emphasizing the importance of parliamentary collaboration, Birla stated that continued engagement between the parliaments of India and Uzbekistan on shared concerns will enhance mutual understanding. He concluded by stating that reciprocal parliamentary visits and growing diplomatic exchanges will not only strengthen legislative cooperation but also foster closer people-to-people ties.